In a decisive push to fortify Odisha against the growing menace of cyber crimes, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today inaugurated the Cyber Security Awareness Campaign-2025, declaring awareness as the “most powerful weapon” to curb digital offences that plague modern society.
The month-long initiative, kicking off at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, will deploy 16 awareness vans across all districts except poll-bound Nuapada, engaging the public through rallies, programs, and interactive sessions on online safety. “Cyber crimes pose a massive challenge to our society today, but awareness is our strongest shield,” Majhi emphasised during the state-level launch event, attended by officials, students, and dignitaries.
Highlighting India’s digital boom, the Chief Minister noted that nearly 82 crore people—or 55% of the population—now use the internet, placing the country second globally in user numbers. “We are completely dependent on digital systems in our daily lives. Internet and technology have become indispensable, yet users are increasingly falling victim to cyber fraud and online scams,” he said. To counter this, the Odisha government is bolstering its cyber police force, with plans to operationalise 20 new Cyber Crime Police Stations soon, alongside modernising the existing 14. A state-level Command Centre under the Crime Branch will also be established as a Centre of Excellence for crime prevention.
In a major boost, Majhi announced the imminent recruitment of 1,127 new police positions and 170 technical experts dedicated to cyber security. Odisha Police has already assisted thousands of complainants via the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and the 1930 helpline, ensuring timely interventions.
Majhi urged citizens to stay vigilant, stressing that most scams stem from a lack of awareness. “Users must remain alert and informed. This campaign will educate people on various facets of cyber fraud,” he added, calling for widespread participation. He also expressed outrage over incidents of blackmail and mental harassment targeting young women online, directing police to take stringent action against perpetrators. “Failure to act will invite departmental proceedings against errant officers,” he warned.
The event saw Majhi flag off the 16 chariots, which will tour districts for a month to spread the message. He administered a cyber safety pledge to attendees, reinforcing collective responsibility. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja commended the Odisha Police for the initiative, calling it a vital step beyond any single department. “Everyone must embrace this awareness drive—cyber security is everyone’s duty,” Ahuja stated.
DGP Y.B. Khurania welcomed participants and outlined the force’s proactive measures and successes in tackling cyber threats, while Crime Branch ADG Vinaytosh Mishra extended thanks to all involved.
As Odisha races toward a safer digital future, this campaign underscores the state’s commitment to empowering its 4.6 crore citizens in an increasingly connected world.
